RIVERPARK
Ambiance
Riverpark is a riverfront oasis in the otherwise quiet Kips Bay neighborhood. It’s a restaurant you should travel for while also being a neighborhood gem—it’s so special in that way. The moment you step inside, the restaurant sparkles with sophistication. Elevated seating, framed by wooden slats dotted with soft lights, creates a cozy, twinkling atmosphere that has you feeling like you are dining under the stars. Rich textures of blue tufted velvet, warm wood, and a glass-shelved bar set the stage for a luxurious experience. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the East River, the restaurant beautifully blends urban elegance with serene natural beauty, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the city.
Cuisine
The food is a reflection of the space’s refined elegance, with each dish meticulously crafted to celebrate the season’s finest ingredients. Chef Kishen Jagmohan’s menu celebrates seasonal flavors while balancing modern techniques with a playful twist. From the vibrant colors of the freshly sourced vegetables to the seared fish fillets, every plate is as much a visual masterpiece as it is a culinary delight.
I had the unique honor of getting to cook alongside Chef Kishen in the Riverpark kitchen for six hours. If you’d like to know more about his cooking methods, click here to read all about my experience.
My Favorite Dishes
SALMON BELLY CRUDO with passionfruit, salsa macha, Thai basil, and radish
AMISH CHICKEN BREAST with kale, sweet potato, gruyère späetzle, and cardamom jus
SEARED SCALLOPS with broccoli rabe, caramelized parsnip, celeriac purée, bacon jam, and basil oil
What To Wear
Smart casual is ideal—put together while also being comfortable. Think after-work crowd meets chic dresses, tailored pants, and stylish blouses.
Kid Friendly
While Riverpark offers a sophisticated setting, it’s welcoming for families. The spacious restaurant inside, the terrace, and the menu can accommodate simpler tastes for younger guests. While I was there, a couple with a young baby sat outside with their stroller table-side, and nobody gave it a thought.